Peter Karlsson depats Lakeside Hammers after spending two and a half years with the club. Pic: Rob Newell/TGSPHOTO

Nilsson, 24, has been in fine form on foreign soil, and the Hammers asset makes a return to the Arena Essex Raceway, having spent time with Eastbourne Eagles in 2013.

But while one Swede arrives, it signals an end to Peter Karlsson’s two and a half year stay with the Hammers. The 42-year-old hadn’t quite hit the same heights this season as he had in previous seasons as Lakeside looked to cement their place in the Elite League play-offs.

And co-promoter Jon Cook admits Nilsson’s form away from the Raceway could be the boost his side need at this stage of the season.

“We are delighted to welcome Kim back to the Raceway,” said Cook.

“He’s coming back in at a great time for him as he’s riding and scoring well. We are very aware that in the past when Kim has a good meeting away we invariably win and that’s going to be crucial over the rest of the season.”

Cook praised Karlsson for all his efforts in a Hammers jersey, adding: “PK and the club have mutually agreed that now is the time to make this change. Working with PK has been an absolute delight and he leaves with our best wishes and we thank him for some terrific moments over the last two and a half seasons.”